Have you ever heard a song that changed your life? One that resonated with you so deeply that you decided to take charge and make your life better because of it? Two months ago, my friend sent me one of those life-altering songs. It’s called “Ten Things” by Paul Baribeau, and the whole gist of the song is to examine your life by creating lists.

Around 20 years ago, through a series of delightful happenstance and uncanny timing, I was lovingly spawned on this beautiful planet. Throughout this time I have learned some valuable lessons about life and the way the world works. This is what I’ve figured out so far:

I’ve been thinking a lot about silence recently. It seems almost nonexistent in this day and age. My ears are always twitching, eagerly awaiting the noise of an incoming text message. I scroll through the newsfeeds of my various social media sites and soak in the loudness of others.

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I’ve been considering what Memorial Day means for our nation. Social media sites rage during this time of the year with posts that remind people the Memorial Day holiday is not about cookouts and a three-day weekend, but that it is to remember those who died to give us the freedom that we cherish in our everyday lives.

It’s that magical time of the year again when teenagers and 20-somethings are scurrying to figure out what they want to do with the rest of their lives. They’re told that the piece of paper they work four years to obtain will define them for the rest of their lives. What they aren’t told is that there are other ways to live a good life.

Editor’s Note: Who doesn’t love to read “Best of” and “Top 5 Favorite” lists — if for no other reason than to see if you agree or disagree. Today we start a new feature called “Top of the Lists” which will run every Friday. As we embark on this endeavor, we want your feedback. Do you agree or disagree with the list? If so, why? If not, who or what should be on it? We want ideas for future lists as well. Send those comments and suggestions to Editor Annette Jordan at ajordan@courier-tribune.com .